Too rich/too lean?

[el_scor_cho]

hey guys, got a slight problem with my vfr 400. every now and then it backfires and sometimes it runs like crap after i start her up and takes a lot of acc in neutral to get the rev gauge up.
i know theres a prob with the fuel but not sure if its rich or lean or what. does sorting this problem out involve fiddling with the carbs?

cheers for any input

[98tls]

Take the plugs out and have a gander,black etc to rich white ish etc running to lean.My bet with those basic symptoms would be rich.Very hard to say without seeing it,could be any number of things.

[imdying]

No, don't decieve yourself by guessing the problem... what you describe does not have to be just fueling.

[Mom]

I am thinking timing here mate, by all means check those plugs for colour hint at mixture, but methinks a trip to the mechanics may not be a bad call either.

[The Pastor]

give the carbs a good clean

[surfer]

No, don't decieve yourself by guessing the problem... what you describe does not have to be just fueling.

Yeah, I'm with this view. Might be electrical such as a worn component like a spark plug or ht lead, or crap in the fuel line or carbs. Make a list and start on the easy stuff first, be methodical about the way you go about it. Include known problems for your make of bike that fit the symptoms. Good luck.

Anyone else want to add to a possible fault finding list for this?

[el_scor_cho]

ok awesome thanks for clearing a few things up. carbs are nice and clean and about to check the plugs.
i think a trip to the mech is in order jsut trying to get a rough idea on what it could be.
cheers

[ducatilover]

could be unbalanced\ synchronised carbs. one of mine was running too lean today and am currently sorting that out. but i need a vacum gauge to do that argh:no:

lean mixture in the slow circuit will cause back fires:2guns:

[bsasuper]

Dont be fooled if it blows black smoke its running rich, detonation also causes black smoke.